Torchwood actor Kai Owen plays a man-obsessed Widow Twankey in this lively production of Aladdin which takes audiences on a magical journey to Peking.

As is tradition for a panto dame, the jokes came thick and fast as did the costume changes and the slapstick foam flinging – all of which the Coventry-based actor did with aplomb.

His double act routines with Kevin McGreevy as Wishee Washee were certainly entertaining and the pair made a great effort to involve the audience in that traditional panto way – getting children up on stage for some singing and inviting a more reluctant grown-up to get embroiled in an entertaining soap-soaking routine.

Torchwood actor Kai Owen who is starring in Aladdin at the Royal Spa Centre in Leamington.

Whilst Kai was a competent crowd pleaser, I found his continual flirting, skirt raising and twerking a little unnecessary and rather off-putting considering the family audience.

Jenny Phillips was a solid Aladdin as was Arina Li as Princes Baldroubadour, both providing some touching moments with their excellently performed duets.

The ensemble of young dancers were great at bringing the production alive with their neatly performed routines and tight choreography. But the star of the show had to be JP McCue who was excellent as the charismatic genie, providing wonderful vocals and leaving the crowd wanting more. An entertaining action-packed pantomime. Runs until January 4.